Bedoba Saperavi 2021, Georgia

This is a terrific find, this is a lovely, juicy smooth red that reminds me of a cross between a Malbec and a Zinfandel. It has an attractive nose of fresh plum and berries along with sweet spice and floral hints, then it leads into a plush palate with summer fruit compote, spice, subtle oak, pepper, minerals and vanilla. Well balanced with soft tannins, good acidity and length, it's one to crack open and enjoy now, ideally with some red meat. And the more you drink it, the more it grows on you. Fantastic value for the quality. Give it a try!
Made from the indigenous grape variety Saperavi and partially vinified in traditional qvevri vessels, Bedoba means `Day of Luck’. Winemakers Nugzar Ksovreli and Thierry Fontannaz found inspiration in the history and legacy of the winery’s founders, the Konchosvilli family, whose cellars date back to 1737. A small fraction of the fruit is fermented in whole bunches, and a selection of the grapes are left to dry naturally on the vines until November, ensuring a fine balance between the savoury and spicy elements of the grape. Stainless steel tanks and clay qvevri pots are used for fermentation, encapsulating the combination of innovation and tradition employed by Ksovreli and Fontannaz. Second and third fill American oak barrels as well as 5,000 litre wooden vats are employed for ageing, before a further 12 months in bottle contributes to a seamless texture.